A National Political Science Honor Society Returns
Pi Sigma Alpha, the only national honor society dedicated to political science students, has regained its permanent status at Auburn University. The organization, which had been inactive due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was officially reinstated on March 17. The national chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha emphasizes scholarship and leadership within the political science field, and Auburn’s chapter is now open to students interested in political topics, regardless of their major.
Established in 1920 at the University of Texas at Austin, Pi Sigma Alpha has long been a prestigious organization with over 300,000 members, including notable figures such as former U.S. Supreme Court Justice William Rehnquist and U.S. Senator Gary Peters. Lifetime membership provides access to scholarships, networking opportunities, and potential career benefits, such as qualifying for a higher pay grade in federal employment. At Auburn, the organization consists of both an honor society and a club component, welcoming students from related disciplines such as law and international studies.
A Non-Partisan Community for Political Science Enthusiasts
One of the key goals of Pi Sigma Alpha at Auburn is to foster a bipartisan community for students interested in political science, as emphasized by the chapter’s president, Joey Weston, a junior majoring in political science. Unlike partisan student organizations such as College Republicans or College Democrats, Pi Sigma Alpha aims to create a space where students can discuss political science topics without party affiliations influencing the discourse.
The club component of Pi Sigma Alpha is open to all students, making it an accessible and inclusive platform for those passionate about political and legal studies. Kacy Nelson, the organization’s public relations officer and a senior studying law and justice, has played a significant role in promoting the group. Drawing from her experience with Auburn’s pre-law honor society, Pi Lambda Sigma, and her efforts in revamping the university’s Photography Club, Nelson has contributed to the organization’s outreach and engagement on campus.
Expanding Membership and Community Involvement
To join the honor society, undergraduate students must have completed at least 60 credit hours toward their degree, including 10 semester hours in political science. Graduate students pursuing a political science degree must have completed at least nine semester hours with no grade lower than a B. Invitations for honor society membership are extended at the end of each term, while students interested in the club component can join at any time.
Treasurer Triston Buckley, a senior majoring in political science and philosophy, highlighted the organization’s focus on growth and community service. As the chapter expands, members hope to implement service projects and establish committees dedicated to various initiatives.
Since its revival, Pi Sigma Alpha has already hosted notable events, including a moderated panel featuring Auburn University professor Dr. Paul Harris, legal professionals, and Auburn Mayor Ron Anders Jr. Additionally, the organization hosts social events, such as game nights, to encourage fellowship among members. Inducted member Robbie Reuse, a junior in political science, emphasized the value of connecting with like-minded peers, noting that networking within the field can lead to valuable academic and career opportunities.